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Rep. Benson undergoes treatment for sepsis

By Katina Caraganis , kcaraganis@sentinelandenterprise.com

Updated:
04/30/2014 10:26:13 PM EDT

LUNENBURG -- State Rep. Jennifer Benson, who represents the 37 Middlesex District, remains in the hospital after being diagnosed with sepsis, or a systemic infection, according to a representative from her office.

Benson was hospitalized late Monday night at Massachusetts General Hospital.

According to www.webmd.com, sepsis is caused by an "overwhelming response to infection."

Additionally, according to the website, chemicals that are released into a person's bloodstream to fight infections can trigger widespread infection. Sepsis can be caused by something as simple as a person scraping their knee, or nicking a cuticle while trimming their nails, or by something more serious, like pneumonia.

Her office sent out a press release announcing the hospitalization Monday, saying they didn't expect her to be present for roll-call votes in the house for at least 48 hours.

According to Meagan Greene, Benson's district director, the representative will remain in the hospital until at least the end of the week, per medical advice. She will also not be present for any roll-call votes for the remainder of the week, Greene said.

Greene said the representative remains in stable condition and is "in good spirits."

She remains in contact with Greene and other aides in her office, and they are keeping in close contact with the House Committee on Ways and Means and the speaker's office to "make sure her priorities and budget amendments receive proper attention," Greene said.

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Benson and her office staff said there has been a large outpouring of support and well-wishes for the representative, which are appreciated.

"Everyone has been a great help, and the support has been excellent," she said.

At this time, Greene said, Benson's office will not be releasing any further information in regard to the infection.

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